Theofanis Gekas of Greece reacts during his country’s game with Japan (Picture: Getty Images)

Unsurprisingly, quite a few people across the Twitterverse were lamenting the goalless draw between Greece and Japan.

I read one individual comment that the game was only marginally better than the clash between Iran and Nigeria (don’t think I need to add anything here).

But this Greek side won’t care and neither will its fans: because Greece its still alive and kicking in Group C, with destiny just about in its own hands.

If Japan don’t beat Colombia – a fairly likely scenario – Fernando Santos’ team will qualify for the knockout stages if they win against the Ivory Coast.

This is a barely believable scenario given Greece have been outplayed in their two matches in Brazil and are yet to score a goal.

I wrote in my first entry for Club Metro that Kostas Mitroglou would be crucial to his country’s chances at this World Cup. But the Fulham striker was forced off with injury in the first half of the Japan match and it remains to be seen if he will be fit for the final game.

That’s not good news for his club side and made things even more difficult for Greece against Japan, after captain Kostas Katsouranis was sent off just before half-time.

Down to ten men against the Japanese, Greece did what they do best: sit deep, soak up pressure and frustrate. They were a constant threat from set-pieces and arguably had the better chances to win the game.

Orestis Karnezis has been busy so far in the tournament (Picture: Getty Images)

Santos and his players will offer no apologies for the style of football they employed. The fact is, Greece have a better chance than England of qualifying for the knockout stages. Who would have thought that would be the case after two group stage matches?

The Greeks seemed to relish playing with ten men and the most frustrating thing about this team is that it took a sending off to spark them into life. They were woeful against Colombia but displayed spirit and application in spades against the Japanese.

Kostas Manolas was a stand-out. The Olympiacos defender has had an excellent tournament and it wouldn’t be a surprise if he attracts English Premier League suitors after this match.

He seems perfectly suited to the English game with his pace, physique and ability in the air. His determination in the tackle and combative qualities against Japan were inspiring. Manolas has confirmed himself as a star for the future.

Greece have given themselves a chance to complete one of the great escape acts in the history of the World Cup. Just imagine what progress from the group stages would mean to people back home?

They may not be the neutrals’ favourite, but the national team remains an important source of joy and escape for people in a country that has endured well-documented problems in recent years.

After a disastrous outing against Colombia, the backs-to-the-wall performance against Japan has given this team and its fans back home a glimmer of hope.